Photo by Aaron Birk (book cover)After years developing his story of urban ecology, author and West Philly resident Aaron Birk is releasing his 112-page graphic novelThe Pollinator’s Corridor. Birk, who single-handedly wrote and illustrated the novel, will be celebrating the publication with a book release dance party this Saturday, March 3.

The Pollinator’s Corridor takes place in the Bronx in the aftermath of the 1970’s landlord fires. It follows three friends who attempt to convince wild bees and butterflies to cross the Bronx boundaries and create “corridors” of native flora to connect the inner city’s fragmented natural environments. In promoting a vision of hope for urban sustainability, the book explores themes of race, class and socioeconomic status.

Join Birk this Saturday for The Pollinator’s Jamboree at Studio 34 (4522 Baltimore Ave.) from 7:30 p.m. to Midnight and celebrate the book’s release. Can’t make the party? Birk has plans to speak at museums, universities and environmental organizations around the country. For more information and to order your copy, visit aaronbirk.com.